Tonsillectomy is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, i.e., the patient can return home the same day after the surgery. Despite the fact that it is a minimally invasive procedure, do not expect to wake up the next morning feeling normal. The patient will be given painkillers, which will lessen their discomfort as they recover.
The anaesthesia may cause the patient to feel exhausted or dizzy. After the tonsillectomy surgery, the dizziness will shortly disappear. Soreness, nausea, and appetite loss are possible post-surgery side effects. The patient’s fatigue and desire for sleep are normal.
Some patients additionally express pain in the jaws or in the direction of the jawbone, ears, or neck. It’s crucial to get lots of rest, especially in the first 2 to 3 days following surgery, as this can provide relief from the issues.
What are the common side effects following a tonsillectomy?
After surgery, a temperature of less than 38.8 °CC is typical for 3 to 4 days. The following indicators of recovery are frequently seen in patients for 10 to 14 days following surgery:
- Bad breath.
- A throat ache or discomfort.
- Snoring
- Post-operative ear discomfort.
- Neck discomfort following surgery.
- White spots where the tonsils once were.
- Pain that gets worse in the morning or right after waking up after a nap.
- Pain that worsens seven days after surgery This occurs as the scabs that have developed where the tonsils once were begin to fall off.
Suggestions for Post-Operative Pain
- Get plenty of sleep and rest.
- Gum chewing helps ease ear pain.
- To relieve ear pain, apply a heating pad.
- Every 3 to 4 hours, give the patient something cold to eat or drink. Being hydrated can make the pain go away.
- Apply an ice pack to the forehead or neck. An ice pack will ease the discomfort.
- Get the patient’s thoughts off of their discomfort by treating them to movies, video games, music, books, etc.
- When the patient is lying down, raise his or her head with two pillows to make breathing easier. Additionally, keeping the airway more open.
- Use a cool humidifier to lessen discomfort and dryness in the throat. Make sure to replace the water at least once a day.
What Foods Should You Eat?
- Bananas
- Applesauce
- Soft spaghetti like jelly
- Popsicles
- Icy dessert
- Sodas
- A potato dish
- Warm tea or coffee
- Warm broth or soup
- Beverages such as apple juice
What Foods Should You Avoid?
- Carrots
- Spicy meals
- Dairy items
- Tomato juice
- Raw apples
- Lemonade or lemon drinks
- Hot soups or beverages
- crackers, chips, or nachos
A Word From the Dr. (Prof.) Ameet Kishore Desk
After a tonsillectomy, the patient is free to eat and drink anything, but some hard or hot foods should be avoided. The patient should be fed cold, soft foods for the first few days.
Avoid meals that are hot, spicy, or sharp. Due to the anesthetic used during the procedure, some patients may experience nausea. Enjoy as many chilled, soft foods that will even help to lessen pain if the patient does not have nausea issues. Cool meals like ice cream, milkshakes, or popsicles will assist the patient in staying hydrated while also soothing any throat soreness.
In order to ease pain or other symptoms while recovering, painkillers are also administered. As directed by the doctor, take the medication. In the event that you experience bleeding or a fever following surgery, contact your ENT specialist.
Dr. (Prof.) Ameet Kishore, the finest ENT specialist in Delhi, provides the treatment you require as well as the compassionate care you deserve. Contact him today to set up an appointment for any ENT-related issues.
